Mēnsa is quickly establishing itself as a standout culinary destination in Pano Panayia, captivating diners with its innovative approach to Cypriot cuisine.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
- Mēnsa is quickly establishing itself as a standout culinary destination in Pano Panayia, captivating diners with its innovative approach to Cypriot cuisine.
August often brings a longing for cooler climates, and escaping the summer humidity of sea level to the mountains is a popular choice. A friend’s recommendation of Mēnsa, a new restaurant in one of my favourite villages, piqued my interest. With high expectations set by the restaurant’s reputation, we made our way to Pano Panayia, just a 30-minute drive from the airport road in Paphos.
Finding Mēnsa was a delightful adventure, thanks to bright orange signs guiding us along a narrow walkway into a beautifully designed space. The restaurant features a large terrace and an interior that seamlessly blends traditional elements with contemporary flair. Opting for the terrace, we were instantly welcomed by a refreshing temperature, a welcome relief from the summer heat.
Mēnsa: A Unique Dining Experience
The ethos of Mēnsa revolves around allowing diners to craft their own culinary journey. While traditional meze is available, the menu encourages a personal selection of small dishes, ensuring a tailored dining experience. Divided into categories such as salads, dips, hot small dishes, meat mains, and sides, the seasonal offerings reflect Mēnsa’s modern take on beloved Cypriot recipes.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that the service was exceptional. The attentive and professional staff provided what could only be described as 6-star service, making us feel truly valued as guests. Their polished demeanour could rival any fashion magazine cover, yet it was their knowledge of hospitality that shone through.
A Tantalising Start
Our meal began with warm, homemade sesame loaves, both white and wholemeal, setting the stage for what was to come. We sampled two salads that were distinct in their flavours: the first featured sheep yoghurt cream accompanied by rye rusks, capers, and tomatoes, while the second combined mixed leaves with anari cheese, fresh peach slices, beluga lentils, and a delightful jam dressing.
Next, we ventured into the dips, where the lemon tahini stood out as particularly unique, complemented by a hummus infused with harissa and topped with caramelised onions. A highlight was the courgette flowers stuffed with Kefalotyri feta and anari cheese, drizzled with basil oil and served with tomatoes. The grilled halloumi boasted a robust flavour that showcased the quality of the cheese, paired beautifully with a tangy tomato marmalade. The aubergines cooked in a rich sauce and topped with fried almonds were another delightful addition, while the roasted caramelised carrots on a fresh bean mash sparked mixed opinions among our group.
Satisfying Main Courses
Leading into the main courses, the menu offered a bounty of vegetarian options, brimming with freshness. We opted for a combination of pork and chicken to share. The tender pork, drizzled with a rich Commandaria sauce, paired wonderfully with its deep flavours, while the chicken was perfectly cooked with a hint of lemon. Accompanying our mains were large, crispy fried potatoes that completed the meal.
A Sweet Finale
Our dining experience culminated in a shared dark chocolate mousse, a decadent treat that was enhanced by a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil — an unusual but delightful twist. This was elegantly paired with a roasted nut crumble, creating a rich and indulgent end to our meal.
Mēnsa truly impressed us with its authentic take on Cypriot cuisine, set in a charming village. Yiannakis Agapiou’s vision of providing a memorable culinary experience was evident throughout our visit, leaving us eager to return and explore more of what this hidden gem has to offer.
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